Thailand has been long known as the “land of golden temples” peppered with sacred and splendid religious sites across the country.
Teaming up with other countries in East Asia, Thailand holds a significant place in Buddhism. Amongst the must-visit destinations in Thailand such as the Wat Traimit Temple, the Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho, Paknam Phasi Charoen Stands out as a hidden gem, attracting a lesser crowd yet obtaining a great value in history, educational purpose, and religious services.
In this article, I’ll show you the best ways to visit this hidden gem, things to see and do, and essential tips for coming prepared.
More on that below.
Read More: Wat Pho’s Reclining Buddha: What to See, Getting There, Dress Code, and More
How To Get To Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple Bangkok?
By Bangkok BTS
If you depart from the city center of Bangkok, arrive at Bang Phai Station. Head out of Exit 1 and walk for 15 minutes east to the Pak Nam Alley. The temple is tucked behind this small alleyway, shielded by residential houses and schools.
No entrance tickets are required. Walk-in visitors are welcome without any additional cost.
By Water Bus
Looking to marvel at the scenery from a different angle? Try the water bus!
Reach out to the Sathorn Pier from Exit 1 of the Saphan Taksin Station and hail a long-tail boat to traverse the Chao Phraya River.
Reservations can be made online. Mix and match your day trip with other desired destinations!
Key Reminders Before Visiting Paknam Phasi Charoen
The temple remains a sacred site in Buddhism, requiring visitors to respect its regulations. Here are essential points to remember:
- Dress modestly: Avoid knee-revealing shorts, skirts, sleeveless tops, or overly revealing clothing.
- Respectful photography: Refrain from making indecent gestures when taking photos with sacred statues.
- Maintain silence: Loud noises and conversations are not permitted inside the property.
- No touching: Avoid touching objects, Buddha statues, and pillars.
A History Rundown
Paknam Phasi Charoen was erected in 1610 during the Ayutthaya period after a huge amount of royal financial support flushed in until the late 19th century. However, by the early 20th century, the temple fell into disuse and disrepair.
Shortly after, the temple underwent a significant revival in the first half of the 20th century, becoming a center for philanthropy and a nationwide campaign promoting moral values in Thai society.
Things To See And Do
At first glance, Paknam Phasi Charoen Temple is a sheer public park. The entrance is shaded and paved, opening out to a massive 32,000 square meter ground behind the tree-lined path.
The entire complex is mapped out like an island, enveloped by canals. On the inside, the private living chambers are split in two, one for the monks and the other for the nuns.
Right here, the most interesting thing to contemplate is the five-floor grand pagoda, crowned by a stunning emerald-glass tier. It’s a well-frequented temple, generously supported by the local community.
Like a walk in the park, wind down and clear your mind by soaking up the serene atmosphere with a stroll around these beautiful gardens and waterfalls.
Within the temple grounds, a museum exhibits an array of donated educational items, ranging from classic cars to Thai artifacts.
The painted dome inside the stupa is a marvel, captivating travelers and locals with its intricate neon-colored designs.
Though not downright an animal shelter, Wat Paknam becomes a refuge for cats and dogs cared for by the monks. You can encounter these furry friends as they roam around.
Final Words: Is Paknam Phasi Charoen Worth Visiting?
If time allows, enjoy a getaway to this hidden gem and combine other visits along the way. If you wanna take it slow and engage in a unique perspective to capture a different angle of this bustling capital, go for the water bus ride. Stop for a short visit at the Khlong Bang Luang Artist House before returning to the downtown core.
Nearby, charming cafes and ice cream shops enhance the overall experience, making it a worthwhile visit.
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